Eddy current cycling resistance apparatus

ABSTRACT

A cycling resistance apparatus includes an adjustment mechanism configured to be attached to a frame, such as a stationary frame or the frame of a bicycle, and a magnet assembly attached to the adjustment mechanism. The adjustment mechanism is configured to position magnets of the magnet assembly at an active position so that a face of each magnet is positioned within a diameter of a bicycle tire and within a width of the bicycle tire, so as to be adjacent an electrically conductive rim of the bicycle wheel. When in the active position, the one or more magnets of the magnet assembly induce eddy currents in the electrically conductive rim of the wheel to provide resistance against rotation of the wheel in the frame.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Ser. No. 62/221,928, filed Sep.22, 2015, which is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD

This disclosure relates to cycling resistance apparatuses, morespecifically, to cycling resistance apparatuses that use eddy currentsto provide resistance.

BACKGROUND

During the training process for cyclists, or during rehabilitation frominjury, cyclists are often required to spend a large amount of timeusing an “indoor trainer”, i.e., a resistance apparatus designed tosimulate load experienced by the cyclist on the road. Resistanceapparatuses provide a training environment which allows for off-season,poor weather, and/or controlled exercise.

Some indoor trainers allow the cyclist to use his or her own bicycle fortraining. These apparatuses generally fall into two categories: thosedriven by the rear wheel, or main drive wheel of the bicycle, and thosedriven directly by the drive chain, which requires mounting the bicycleto a dedicated sprocket and stand. Many of these devices have drawbacksthat include increased tire wear, loud operating noise levels,difficulty in mounting/dismounting the bicycle from the device, and highcost.

In addition to indoor training, many cyclists ride in outdoor groups fortraining purposes. As the size of the group increases, the likelihood ofriders being either significantly faster or slower than the bulk of thegroup increases. As a result, these riders may be frustrated by theinability to keep up with the group, or are alternately frustrated bythe inability to get a good workout due to the perceived slow pacerequired to remain with the group. In order to combat this, use ofelectric assist has been proposed to help slower riders keep pace withfaster riders. However, electric assist devices are costly, potentiallyheavy, can be difficult to install and remove, and often disqualify theuse of a bike for competition.

SUMMARY

According to an aspect of the present invention, a cycling resistanceapparatus includes an adjustment mechanism configured to be attached toa frame, such as a stationary frame or the frame of a bicycle, and amagnet assembly attached to the adjustment mechanism. The adjustmentmechanism is configured to position one or more magnets of the magnetassembly at an active position so that a face of each magnet ispositioned within a diameter of a bicycle tire and within a width of thebicycle tire, so as to be adjacent an electrically conductive rim of thebicycle wheel. When in the active position, the one or more magnets ofthe magnet assembly induce eddy currents in the electrically conductiverim of the wheel to provide resistance against rotation of the wheel inthe frame.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a cyclingresistance apparatus includes an adjustment mechanism configured to beattached to a frame, a wheel of a bicycle being rotatably mounted withrespect to the frame. The wheel has an electrically conductive rim, anda tire is mountable to the electrically conductive rim. The apparatusfurther includes a magnet assembly attached to the adjustment mechanism,the magnet assembly having at least one magnet. The adjustment mechanismis configured to position the at least one magnet of the magnet assemblyat an active position configured to induce eddy currents in theelectrically conductive rim of the wheel to provide resistance againstrotation of the wheel in the frame without requiring any correspondingmagnets to be attached to the rim, tire, or wheel of the bicycle.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a cyclingresistance apparatus includes an adjustment mechanism configured to beattached to a frame, a wheel of a bicycle being rotatably mounted withrespect to the frame. The bicycle has an electrically conductiverotational component as part of the wheel or attached to the wheel. Theelectrically conductive rotational component is configured for normaloperation of the bicycle. The apparatus further includes a magnetassembly attached to the adjustment mechanism, the magnet assemblyhaving at least one magnet. The adjustment mechanism is configured toposition the at least one magnet of the magnet assembly at an activeposition configured to induce eddy currents in the electricallyconductive rotational component of the bicycle to provide resistanceagainst rotation of the wheel in the frame without requiring anycorresponding magnets to be attached to the rim, tire, or wheel of thebicycle.

The interaction between the magnet assembly and the rotating rim, orother rotational component, results in eddy currents generated withinthe bicycle rim or other rotational component, and subsequently areactive force retarding the rotation of the wheel. The nature of thepresent invention requires no direct contact with the bicycle rim, tire,or wheel, and the retardation force can be manipulated by changing theactive position by adjusting magnet proximity to the rim or otherrotational component, by selecting the number of magnets used and/or thefield strength of the magnets, by controlling the relative speed betweenthe rim or other rotational component and the magnets, in addition tocontrolling parameters such as the size, shape, and/or composition ofthe bicycle rim or other rotational component. Suitable bicycle rims androtational components include those made of steel, copper, aluminum,alloys thereof, and other electrically conductive materials. Theinvention is applicable to the majority of currently available bicyclerims, which tend to be constructed of extruded aluminum, as well as tomany currently available disc brakes, which tend to be made of steel.The power absorbed by the resistance is mainly dissipated throughheating of the rim or other rotational component, with heat then beingtransferred into the surrounding air. Due to lack of direct contact withthe bicycle rim or other rotational component, there may be lessadditional noise generated by the apparatus, there may be no additionaltire wear, and construction costs may be reduced due to a lack of movingparts.

Depending on rider preference, additional inertia or “effective inertia”may be required to maintain a substantially constant wheel speed betweenpedal strokes, thereby moderating the fluctuations in energy dissipationrate, or power, absorbed by the resistance apparatus. Real inertia canbe added via mass within the system, such as a flywheel or additionalweights added to the wheel and tire assembly. Effective inertia can becreated by controlling the eddy current resistance via dynamicmanipulation of magnetic field location or orientation or magnetic fieldstrength, which can be performed during a single wheel rotation, asingle pedal rotation, or over the course of multiple pedal rotations.

The cycling resistance apparatus can include a stationary frame thatsupports the bicycle or can be mounted to the frame of the bicycleitself. In the latter case, the apparatus can be provided to the drivewheel or a non-driven wheel. During operation, the apparatus may beadjusted directly by the rider, or by an actuator, so that the desiredadditional resistance is achieved by manipulating the magneticinteraction with the rotating rim. This allows for outdoor usage ingroup rides with the effect of “handicapping” faster riders.

These and other aspects of the present invention will be discussed indetail below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The drawings illustrate, by way of example only, embodiments of thepresent disclosure.

FIG. 1 is a perspective diagram of a cycling resistance apparatus with astationary frame and with a bicycle mounted.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view at a rim of a bicycle wheel.

FIG. 3 is a perspective diagram of the cycling resistance apparatus withthe stationary frame.

FIG. 4 is a perspective diagram of the adjustment mechanism and themagnet assemblies.

FIG. 5 is a perspective diagram of the cycling resistance apparatus withthe stationary frame in a standing configuration.

FIG. 6 is a perspective diagram of the cycling resistance apparatus withthe stationary frame in a storage configuration.

FIG. 7 is a perspective diagram of a magnet assembly.

FIG. 8 is a perspective diagram of a cycling resistance apparatusmounted to a bicycle.

FIG. 9 is a perspective diagram of a weight.

FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of securing the weight to the wheel.

FIG. 11 is a perspective diagram of the weight installed on the wheel.

FIG. 12 is a perspective diagram of another cycling resistanceapparatus.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram of a control system for a cycling resistanceapparatus.

FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram of magnetic flux lines of magnetsarranged in a Halbach array.

FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram of magnetic flux lines of magnetsarranged in an alternating N-S arrangement.

FIG. 16 is a perspective diagram of another cycling resistance apparatusfor use with a disc brake.

FIGS. 17a and 17b are perspective diagrams of the cycling resistanceapparatus of FIG. 8.

FIG. 18 is a perspective diagram of another cycling resistance apparatusthat includes a flywheel.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 shows a cycling resistance apparatus 10 with a stationary frame12 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The rider's ownbicycle 14 is connected to the apparatus 10 to allow for in-placetraining. The stationary frame 12 supports the rear or drive wheel 16 ofthe bicycle 14 above the floor, ground, or other surface 18. The wheel16 is rotatably mounted with respect to the frame 12 by way of clampmembers 20 that thread through threaded holes 22 in the stationary frame12 and engage with the lock nuts or other structural elements at thebicycle's rear hub to support at least the rear of the bicycle 14 abovethe floor 18 while permitting the rear wheel 16 to rotate normally.

The wheel 16 of the bicycle 14 has an electrically conductive rim 30,such as a conventional aluminum rim, with a tire 32 mounted to the rim30 as conventional for normal riding of the bicycle on roads, tracks, orother locations. The rim 30 can be any suitable electrically conductivematerial, with aluminum, steel, copper, and alloys thereof beingexamples. The tire 32 need not be mounted to the rim 30 for theapparatus 10 to function.

The cycling resistance apparatus 10 includes an adjustment mechanism 40attached to the frame and at least one magnet assembly 42 attached tothe adjustment mechanism 40. The magnet assembly 42 has at least onemagnet. In this embodiment, two opposing magnet assemblies 42 and 44(hidden in this view; see FIG. 3) are used, each having a plurality ofmagnets.

The adjustment mechanism 40 is configured to position the magnetassemblies 42, and the magnets carried thereby, at an active positionclose to the rim 30. When in the active position, the magnet assembly 42induces eddy currents in the electrically conductive rim 30 of thebicycle wheel 16 to provide resistance against rotation of the wheel 16.Moreover, suitable resistance can be provided by the apparatus 10without any magnets required to be attached to the rim, tire, or wheelof the bicycle, as is needed in some conventional systems. In otherembodiments, the active position is close to another electricallyconductive rotational component of the bicycle, such as a rotating discof a disc brake. In any event, the electrically conductive rotationalcomponent of the bicycle, be it a rim, disc, or other component, is acomponent of the bicycle that is normally part of the bicycle and thatis not specifically added to the bicycle for use with the apparatus.

In operation, the rider uses the adjustment mechanism 40 to position themagnet assemblies 42 relative to the rim to set the desired resistanceand pedals the bicycle normally, whether using the apparatus with astationary frame or during an actual ride with the apparatus attached tothe bicycle. Control of the adjustment mechanism 40 can be manual,automatically electrically controlled, or some combination of such.

The active position is shown in detail in FIG. 2. In the activeposition, a rim-facing face 50 of each magnet 52 is located at aposition within an inner diameter D of the bicycle tire 32, as measuredfrom the axis of rotation A, and also within a width W of the tire 32(as measured when inflated to manufacturer recommended pressure), so asto be adjacent the corresponding side surface 54 of the electricallyconductive rim 30. The resistance generated by the apparatus isproportional to the degree of adjacency, and the degree of adjacency ofthe face 50 of each magnet 52 to the rim 30 of the wheel 16 can beselected, adjusted, and/or controlled to provide suitable eddy currentresistance against rotation of the wheel 16. For sake of thisdisclosure, adjacency is defined as anywhere between the width W of thetire 32 and the width R of the rim 30, without physically contacting therim 30. In other words, the gap G between the face 50 of each magnet 52and the side surface 54 of the rim 30 of the wheel 16 is enough toprovide the desired eddy current resistance, which is contemplated todepend on the level of workout required by the rider. However, a gap Gof some degree should exist and the magnets 52 should not physicallycontact the rim 30. It is contemplated that the active position can bevaried to some degree and need not be precisely as described above,particularity when narrow tires are used. Further, the apparatus 10 canbe used with the stationary frame with the tire removed. Hence, itshould be understood that the active position is a position of themagnets of the one or more magnet assemblies 42 that provides resistanceagainst rotation of the wheel without requiring any correspondingmagnets to be attached to the rim, tire, or wheel.

As shown in FIG. 3, in this embodiment, the adjustment mechanism 40includes a pair of caliper arms 60, 62 that are pivot connected to aload cell 64 at a pivot point 66. The load cell 64 is connected to theframe 12 via a mounting component 68, such as a plate that is welded tothe frame 12. In other embodiments, the load cell is replaced with asimple structural member. A bolt can be provided as the pivot point 66,with the caliper arms 60, 62 being pivotable about the bolt. However,this is not limiting and different pivot structures can be used,including using separate pivot points for each caliper arm. Further, inother embodiments, other mechanisms instead of or in addition to one ormore caliper arms can be used for the adjustment mechanism 40.

In this embodiment, the adjustment mechanism 40 further includes a quickrelease mechanism 70 configured to lock and unlock rotation of thecaliper arms 60, 62. For example, a cam-type quick release handle can beused. In other embodiments, the rotation of the caliper arms 60, 62 iscontrolled by a manual actuator (e.g., a lever, knob, etc.) or anelectromechanical actuator, such actuator being directly manuallycontrolled by a rider or controlled by a controller either automaticallyor under the control of the rider.

Each magnet assembly 42, 44 is connected to a free end of a differentcaliper arm 60, 62 opposite the end connected to the pivot point 66. Thefree end is not necessarily the extremity of the caliper arm, asadditional length of caliper arm may be provided for various purposessuch as to mount a sensor.

The rotation of the caliper arms 60, 62 can be controlled to bring themagnet assembly 42, 44 to their active positions to generate suitableeddy current resistance and to withdraw the magnet assembly 42, 44 awayfrom the rim 30 so as to provide clearance to easily remove the wheel 16(at its widest point, e.g., the tire) from the apparatus 10. The quickrelease mechanism 70 allows for easy manual adjustment of the activeposition to customize the degree of eddy current resistance provided. Inother embodiments, controller-actuated adjustments can be used todynamically modify the degree of eddy current resistance.

FIG. 4 shows a closer view of the adjustment mechanism 40 and the magnetassemblies 42, 44.

As can be seen, the mounting component 68 connects the load cell 64 andattached caliper arms 60, 62 to a support leg 80 of the frame 12. Inthis embodiment, the mounting component 68 includes a flat plate that iswelded to the support leg 80 and that includes a linear slot 82 forreceiving and guiding a pair of screws 84 or similar structure threadedinto or otherwise attached to the body of the load cell 64. The screws84 connect the load cell body to the mounting component 68 and providelinear adjustable positioning of the pair of caliper arms 60, 62 withrespect to apparatus 10 and thus the bicycle wheel. That is, the screws84 can be loosened to allow the linear position X of the caliper arms60, 62 to be adjusted before being tightened to fix the caliper arms 60,62 in position. This can allow the apparatus 10 to accommodate differentwheel diameters. Other fastening techniques to facilitate sliding withinthe slotted plate or other mounting component 68 are contemplated. Inother embodiments, a simple non-load-sensing beam or similar mountingstructure that retains a generally fixed mounting point is used insteadof a load cell.

Further, in this embodiment, each magnet assembly 42, 44 include amagnet holder 90 that is rotatably connected to the free end of therespective caliper arm 60, 62 at a respective pivot point 86, which canbe defined by a screw, bolt, pin, or similar structure. This allows themagnet assemblies 42, 44 to accommodate various wheel styles and/or toswivel from the active position to a compact storage position (see FIG.6). A locking element 88, such as a manually actuatable spring-loadedlocking pin, is provided to hold the respective magnet assembly 42, 44at a fixed position relative to the respective caliper arm 60, 62. Inthis embodiment, the spring-loaded locking pin 88 is biased against theend of the caliper arm 60, 62 to engage a hole in the body of the magnetholder 90. Pulling the spring-loaded locking pin 88 releases the end ofthe pin from the hole, allowing the magnet holder 42, 44 to swivel.

Each magnet holder 90 holds a plurality of magnets 52. Magnets 52 can beaffixed to the magnet holders 90 by fastening features, such as clips,indents, interference fits, screws, clamps, or similar or by permanenttechniques, such as thermal bonding, adhesive, or similar. In thisembodiment, the magnets 52 are individually removably connected to themagnet holders 90 in order to permit addition and removal of magnets 52so that resistance can be further customized.

In addition, in this embodiment, the magnets 52 of each magnet assembly42, 44 are arranged in an arc having a diameter consistent with thediameter D of the electrically conductive rim 30. That is, the diameterof the arcuate path on which the magnets 52 are arranged is selected toaccommodate the expected diameter or diameter range of bicycle rims tobe used with the apparatus 10. This arc-shaped arrangement of magnetsadvantageously increases the maximum possible eddy current resistancethat can be generated by the apparatus and keeps the overall apparatuscompact with respect to conventional systems. In other embodiments,other magnet arrangements, such as linear arrangements, can be used.Moreover, when used with a rotational component of smaller diameter,such as a disc brake, the arrangement of magnets can follow acorrespondingly tighter arc.

FIG. 5 shows the apparatus 10 set up in the standing configuration andready for use. The stationary frame 12 includes at least one pair ofsupport legs including a fixed support leg 80 and a collapsible supportleg 100. In this embodiment, two pairs of such support legs are providedon opposite sides of the wheel with a cross-member 102 rigidlyconnecting the lower ends of the fixed support legs 80 together. Thefixed support legs 80 and cross-member 102 thus form a U-shapedsub-frame to which the adjustment mechanism 40 is connected.

Each collapsible support leg 100 is rotatably connected to one of thefixed support legs 80 at an upper end of the fixed support leg 80. Thispivot connection is made by a bolt 104 that extends through holesprovided in the upper ends of the fixed support leg 80 and thecollapsible support leg 100. In other embodiments, other structures canbe used to provide the rotatable connection of the collapsible supportleg 100 to the fixed support leg 80.

To facilitate compact collapse of the stationary frame 12 for storage,each collapsible support leg 100 is shaped to sheath the respectivefixed support leg 80. That is, the collapsible support leg 100 definesan internal volume 106 that accommodates at least a portion of the fixedsupport leg 80. In this embodiment, the legs 80, 100 are made from roundmetal tubing, with the collapsible support legs 100 having a largerdiameter than the fixed support legs 80. In other embodiments, othershapes of tubing (e.g., rectangular) can be used. Further, the tubing ofeach collapsible support leg 100 is cut away on a cut line 108 that canfollow any suitable path, so as to create an opening to the internalvolume 106 of the collapsible support leg 100. The cut line 108 extendslongitudinally along the collapsible support leg 100 to open theinternal volume 106. The cut line 108 may have a circumferentialcomponent, as shown, to remove excess material that may cause pinchpoints when the frame 12 is collapsed, while leaving enough material toprovide suitable strength for the collapsible support leg 100.

An abutting portion 110 of each collapsible support leg 100 defines theextent of rotation of the collapsible support leg 100 with respect tothe fixed support leg 80. A stopper portion 112 located at an upper endof each collapsible support leg 100 and opposite the abutting portion110 provides increased resistance to over-rotation of the collapsiblesupport leg 100. The lower end 114 of the collapsible support leg 100 isleft with a full diameter of tube for strength against localdeformation.

FIG. 6 shows the apparatus 10 in the collapsed storage configuration.The stationary frame 12 has been folded so that each fixed support leg80 is sheathed inside the respective collapsible support leg 100. Inaddition, the magnet assemblies 42, 44 are swivelled from the activeposition to the storage position.

Referring back to FIG. 5, in some embodiments, a series of holes 120 isprovided to each fixed support leg 80 to define a plurality of pivotconnections for receiving connection of the respective collapsiblesupport leg 100 to allow for adjustment to the standing configuration.That is, a particular hole 120 in each fixed support leg 80 can beselected to receive the bolt 104 connection of the collapsible supportleg 100, thereby providing for further customizability of the apparatusfor various bike and body shapes and rider preferences.

Detail of a magnet assembly 42, 44 according to this embodiment is shownin FIG. 7. The magnet assembly 42, 44 include an arc-shaped holder 130defining a trough 132 into which magnets 52 are situated (one shown inplace, others removed). Protruding spacers 134 can be provided in thetrough 132 to allow for improved securement of the magnets 52 and forthe ability to individually add and remove magnets 52.

FIG. 8 shows another embodiment of the cycling resistance apparatus 200according to the present invention. The cycling resistance apparatus 200is mounted to a bicycle frame, so that the bicycle may be ridden withincreased resistance. Other features and aspects of the cyclingresistance apparatus 200 are the same or similar to the cyclingresistance apparatus 10 discussed above. The above description can bereferenced, with like reference numerals denoting like components.

The cycling resistance apparatus 200 includes a mounting clamp 202 thatclamps to the bicycle frame 204 to position an adjustment mechanism 206and the magnet assemblies 42, 44 relative to one of the bicycle wheels,not necessarily the drive wheel. The principles of operation andadjustment are the same as described above. The rider may adjust theresistance during a ride by manually actuating the adjustment mechanism206, which can include a quick release mechanism 70 or similar. In otherembodiments, the apparatus is additionally or alternatively configuredfor controller-actuated adjustments to dynamically modify the degree ofeddy current resistance. Addition and removal of magnets is also anoption to vary resistance. Further detail of the cycling resistanceapparatus 200 is shown in FIGS. 17a and 17 b.

With reference back to FIG. 3, one or more weights 300 can be providedfor use with the cycling resistance apparatus 10. The weights 300 helpsimulate “road feel”, which often requires using a flywheel inconventional resistance trainers. Note that road feel corresponds toeffective or actual inertia approaching or exceeding that which a riderwould experience while cycling outdoors.

As shown in FIGS. 9-11, the weight 300 is shaped to be held betweenspokes 302 of the wheel 16. The weight 300 is shaped to fit within thegenerally V-shaped volume 304 defined by adjacent spokes 302 that extendfrom the rim 30 of the wheel 16 to the wider hub 306 of the wheel 16.Rotation of the wheel 16 causes centrifugal force to act on the weightand tend to wedge the weight 300 in place and prevent dislodgement ofthe weight 300 during use.

In this embodiment, the weight 300 includes a central planar portion 310sandwiched between two side portions 312, 314. One side portion 312, isgenerally U-shaped to accommodate a spoke centrally aligned with theweight 300. The opposite side portion 314 has a shape that is generallycomplementary to the side portion 312 to accommodate two spokes adjacentthe central spoke and tilted differently from the central spoke. Thecentral planar portion 310 of the weight is circumferentially longerthan the two side portions 312, 314. In this embodiment, the weight 300is a single monolithic piece of material as opposed to several pieces ofmaterial that are bolted or otherwise connected together. Further, insome embodiments, the weight 300 is made of non-magnetic material toavoid interaction with the magnets of the apparatus 10. In still otherembodiments, the weight 300 is made of magnetic material (e.g., carbonsteel, etc.) and the weight 300 is positioned further from the rim 30 orother rotational component to avoid interaction with the magnets of theapparatus 10.

In some embodiments, the weight 300 incudes one or more notches 316 toaccommodate spokes. Further, in some embodiments, the weight 300includes at least one threaded hole 318 to receive a screw to provide aclamping load between the weight 300 and at least one spoke of the wheelto hold the weight 300 in place. Further, in some embodiments, theweight 300 includes protrusions 320 to offset the weight 300 from therim 30 of the wheel.

FIG. 12 shows another embodiment of the cycling resistance apparatus 400according to the present invention. The cycling resistance apparatus 400includes a controller and one or more electromechanical actuators forpositioning the magnets to control resistance. Other features andaspects of the cycling resistance apparatus 400 are the same or similarto the cycling resistance apparatus 10 discussed above. The abovedescription can be referenced, with like reference numerals denotinglike components.

The adjustment mechanism 40 includes a pair of caliper arms 60, 62 thatare pivotably driven by an actuator 402, such as a stepper motor, thatis connected to the frame 12 via the load cell 64 or other member.Another actuator 404, such as a stepper motor with a worm gear, isprovided to drive the linear position of the adjustment mechanism 40.The actuator 404 drives the load cell 64 or other member against themounting component 68 that is connected to the frame 12.

The actuators 402, 404 are connected to a controller housed in anelectronics housing 406. The controller is configured to control theactuators 402, 404 to actuate the adjustment mechanism 40 to change theactive positions of the magnet assemblies 42, 44, so as to controllablyvary the resistance against rotation of the wheel.

In other embodiments, the actuator 404 is omitted and the linearposition of the adjustment mechanism 40 is manually adjusted as with theapparatus 10. The rotational positions of the caliper arms 60, 62 andconnected magnet assemblies 42, 44 are adjusted using the actuator 402as controlled by the controller. In such embodiments, a quick releasemechanism 70 (see FIG. 3) may be provided in addition to the actuator402 to allow for both manual and dynamic control of the positions of themagnet assemblies 42, 44.

In other embodiments, the adjustment mechanism 40, magnet assemblies 42,44, one or both actuators 402, 404, and the controller are provided witha clamp 202 (see FIG. 8), such that dynamic control of resistance isprovided to a bicycle-mounted cycling resistance apparatus.

FIG. 13 shows electronic components of the various embodiments discussedherein. A controller 500 can include any kind of processor,microprocessor, or similar device capable of executing instructions,processing sensor/load-cell data, and controlling actuators. Memory 502is connected to the controller 500 to store operational instructions anddata, such as actuator settings that correspond to various desiredresistances. The memory 502 can further store load cell measurementvalues correlated to force, as the load cell 64 will deflect andregister a reaction load due to forces caused by the magnet assemblies.A communications interface 504 is connected to the controller 500 toallow for input commands from the rider to increase or decreaseresistance and to provide information to the rider and/or to anothersystem. The communications interface 504 is configured to connect viawires or wirelessly (e.g., ANT+, Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy or BLE,etc.) to one or both of a user-interface device 506, such as asmartphone, smart watch, or cycling computer, and a remote computerdevice, such as a data capture server. One or more sensors 508, such asa wheel speed sensor (e.g., Hall effect sensor, optical sensor, etc.),can be provided to capture further data that can be used by thecontroller 500 when adjusting resistance or that can be outputted forother purposes. With reference back to FIG. 5, the sensor 508 can bemounted to one of the caliper arms with a sensor mounting member 520.The controller 500 can be configured to correlate load cell measurementsand wheel speed measurements, using one or more lookup tables 510 storedin the memory 502, to obtain cycling power values that can be outputtedto the rider.

Shown in FIGS. 14 and 15 are schematic views of magnetic flux fieldsproduced by alternate magnet orientations that can be used with thepresent invention. In FIG. 14, the flux field 600 is shown for a Halbacharray of magnets, whereby the magnetic poles 602 are arranged as shownto provide an increased field density on one side of the magnet assembly42, 44 while providing significantly reduced field strength on theopposing side 604. Each magnet 52 in the plurality of magnets 52 isshown to be in contact with each other in a planar arrangement, however,it is understood that each magnet 52 may be separated by some distancefrom each other magnet 52. It is understood that the magnet assembly 42,44 may extend any suitable distance in the direction 606. The bicyclewheel rim 30 is shown passing through the magnetic flux field travellingin either direction, as indicated by arrows 608, 610. Although thedirection of travel is shown to be parallel to the magnet assembly 42,44, it is understood that the direction of travel 608, 610 may occur atan angle with respect to the magnet assembly 42, 44.

Alternatively, FIG. 15 shows a magnet assembly 42, 44 comprisingmagnetic poles 602. The magnetic poles 602 may be arranged in analternating manner to generate a substantially equal magnetic flux field620 on both sides of the magnet assembly 42, 44. The bicycle wheel rim30 is rotated through the magnetic flux field 620, generating eddycurrents and a resistive force. The magnet assembly 42, 44 is understoodto be constructed of a plurality of magnets 52, and may extend somedistance in the direction 606. It is further understood that althoughtwo exemplary arrangements of magnets are shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, themagnets 52 may be arranged in other ways.

FIG. 16 shows another embodiment of the cycling resistance apparatus 700according to the present invention. The cycling resistance apparatus 700interacts with a disc brake to control resistance during riding of thebicycle or while the bicycle is mounted to a stationary frame. Otherfeatures and aspects of the cycling resistance apparatus 700 are thesame or similar to the cycling resistance apparatuses discussedelsewhere herein. The related description can be referenced, with likereference numerals denoting like components.

The cycling resistance apparatus 700 includes one or more magnetassemblies 42, 44 connected to an adjustment mechanism 702. Theadjustment mechanism 702 is configured to attach to the frame 710 of thebicycle. The rotating disc 712 of a disc brake of the bicycle acts asthe electrically conductive rotational component that magneticallyinteracts with the one or more magnet assemblies 42, 44, which may belocated on one side or on opposite sides of the disc 712. The adjustmentmechanism 702 can include one or more lever arms, such as one or morecaliper arms, a ball and slot structure, or similar. The adjustmentmechanism positions magnets of the magnet assembly 42, 44 at an activeposition to induce eddy currents in the disc 712 of the disc brake toprovide resistance against rotation of the wheel. The adjustmentmechanism 702 can be configured for manual control, forelectromechanical control by a controller, or both, as discussedelsewhere herein.

FIGS. 17a and 17b show the cycling resistance apparatus 200 of FIG. 8.The magnet assembly 42 is connected to the adjustment mechanism 206,which includes a ball and slot adjustment structure that includes a ball210 that is slidable within a slot 212. The ball 210 is connected to themagnet assembly 42 and is held in the slot 212 by an adjustment screw214 that threads into the ball and abuts the opposite side of the slot212. When the adjustment screw 214 is loosened, the ball 210 can bemoved in the slot 212 to change its position. This can be used to adjustthe distance of the magnet assembly 42 to the wheel rim or otherelectrically conductive rotational component of the bicycle along anaxis 216, and thus adjust the resistance provided by the apparatus 200.Further, the magnet assembly 42 can be rotatably connected to theadjustment mechanism 206 at a pivot point, such as a bolt, pin, orsimilar to permit rotation of the magnet assembly 42 about the axis 216.Such rotation can facilitate moving the magnet assembly 42 into and outof the active position adjacent the rim or other rotation component ofthe bicycle wheel.

The mounting clamp 202 of the cycling resistance apparatus 200 includesa pair of opposing clamp members 220. One clamp member 220 is connectedto the adjustment mechanism 206, specifically the member the defines theslot 212, and the other clamp member 220 is used to straddle a portionof the bicycle frame. The clamp member 220 are connected together bybolts through holes, or other type of fastener, so as to sandwich theportion of the frame to which the apparatus is attached to secure thecycling resistance apparatus 200 to the bicycle.

FIG. 18 shows another embodiment of the cycling resistance apparatus 800according to the present invention. The cycling resistance apparatus 800includes a flywheel. Other features and aspects of the cyclingresistance apparatus 800 are the same or similar to the cyclingresistance apparatuses discussed elsewhere herein. The relateddescription can be referenced, with like reference numerals denotinglike components.

The apparatus 800 includes a stationary frame 802 to which one or moremagnet assemblies 804 are attached. Each magnet assembly 804 isconnected to the stationary frame 802 via a support arm 806 and a mount808 that form an adjustment mechanism. In this embodiment, two opposingmagnet assemblies 804 are used, one on each side of the bicycle wheelrim 30. The mount 808 is configured to adjust the position of thesupport arms 806 and magnet assemblies 804 with respect to the rim 30.The adjustment mechanism can be configured for manual control, forelectromechanical control by a controller, or both, as discussedelsewhere herein. The apparatus 800, by virtue of the one or more magnetassemblies 804, generates cycling resistance by way of inducing eddycurrents in the rim 30, as discussed elsewhere herein.

The apparatus 800 further includes a flywheel assembly 810 rotationallymounted to the stationary frame 802. The flywheel assembly 810 includesa flywheel 812 and a plurality of magnets 814 mounted to the flywheel812. In this embodiment, the magnets 814 are mounted along a perimeterof the flywheel 812 on a surface of the flywheel 812 that faces thebicycle wheel rim 30. As the flywheel 812 rotates, magnets 814 arebrought adjacent the rim 30 to induce eddy currents in the rim 30, so asto increase system inertia. The rotational axis of the flywheel 812 maybe parallel to the wheel's rotation axis 820 (as depicted),perpendicular to the rotation axis 820, or at some other angle relativeto the rotation axis 820. Magnetic interaction between the flywheelassembly 810 and the bicycle rim 30 stores rotational energy of thewheel, releasing additional energy when the wheel decelerates andabsorbing additional energy when the wheel accelerates, thereby actingto regulate wheel speed and mitigate speed variation during pedalstrokes. The flywheel assembly 810 can be used with any of the otherembodiments discussed herein.

The advantages of the present invention over the prior art are numerous.For one, the rider's own bicycle can be used and the present inventiondoes not require magnets to be installed on the bicycle. Resistance isgenerated by magnetic interaction that is provided through the rim orother rotational component that is normally present on the bicycle.Moreover, when the invention is used with a stationary frame, tire wearis eliminated by virtue of the magnetic interaction with the rim orother rotational component of the bicycle being the sole source ofresistance. No tire-contacting roller is needed. Elimination of tirecontact means that noise is greatly reduced over conventionalapparatuses. Noise is also reduced as compared to prior art designs thatuse complex arrangements of specialized rotating and stationarycomponents. In addition, the present invention is readily collapsible toa very compact form for efficient storage (e.g., under a couch).

While the foregoing provides certain non-limiting example embodiments,it should be understood that combinations, subsets, and variations ofthe foregoing are contemplated. The monopoly sought is defined by theclaims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A cycling resistance apparatus comprising: anadjustment mechanism configured to be attached to a frame, a wheel of abicycle rotatably mounted with respect to the frame, the wheel having anelectrically conductive rim and a tire mounted to the electricallyconductive rim; and a magnet assembly attached to the adjustmentmechanism, the magnet assembly having at least one magnet; theadjustment mechanism configured to position the at least one magnet ofthe magnet assembly at an active position in which a face of the atleast one magnet is positioned within a diameter of the tire andpositioned within a width of the tire to be adjacent the electricallyconductive rim of the wheel; the at least one magnet of the magnetassembly when in the active position configured to induce eddy currentsin the electrically conductive rim of the wheel to provide resistanceagainst rotation of the wheel in the frame.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1,wherein the adjustment mechanism comprises a pair of caliper arms pivotconnected to at least one pivot point, and wherein the apparatuscomprises a pair of opposing magnet assemblies that include the magnetassembly, each magnet assembly of the pair of opposing magnet assembliesconnected to a free end of a different one of the pair of caliper arms.3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the adjustment mechanism furthercomprises a quick release mechanism configured to lock and unlockrotation of the caliper arms.
 4. The apparatus of claim 2, furthercomprising a mounting component configured to attach the adjustmentmechanism to the frame and to provide linear adjustable positioning ofthe pair of caliper arms with respect to the wheel.
 5. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the adjustment mechanism comprises at least one caliperarm pivot connected to at least one pivot point, and wherein the magnetassembly comprises a magnet holder that holds a plurality of magnetsincluding the at least one magnet, the magnet holder being connected toa free end of the at least one caliper arm.
 6. The apparatus of claim 5,wherein the magnet holder is rotatably connected to the free end of theat least one caliper arm.
 7. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein theplurality of magnets is arranged in an arc having a diameter consistentwith a diameter of the electrically conductive rim.
 8. The apparatus ofclaim 5, wherein magnets of the plurality of magnets are individuallyremovably connected to the magnet holder.
 9. The apparatus of claim 1,further comprising a stationary frame as the frame, the stationary frameconfigured to rotatably support the bicycle wheel above a surface. 10.The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the stationary frame comprises atleast one pair of support legs including a fixed support leg and acollapsible support leg, the adjustment mechanism being connected to thefixed support leg, the collapsible support leg rotatably connected tothe fixed support leg between a standing configuration and a storageconfiguration, the collapsible support leg shaped to define an internalvolume that accommodates at least a portion of the fixed support leg inthe storage configuration.
 11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein thefixed support leg and the collapsible support leg are rotatablyconnected at a pivot connection.
 12. The apparatus of claim 10, whereinthe fixed support leg comprises a plurality of pivot connections forreceiving connection of the collapsible support leg to allow foradjustment to the standing configuration of the stationary frame. 13.The apparatus of claim 10, further comprising two opposing pairs ofsupport legs including the at least one pair of support legs and furthercomprising a cross-member between lower ends of fixed support legs ofthe two opposing pairs of support legs.
 14. The apparatus of claim 1,wherein the frame is a bicycle frame of the bicycle, and the apparatusprovides for resistance training during riding.
 15. The apparatus ofclaim 1, further comprising a weight configured to be held betweenspokes of the wheel, the weight being shaped to fit within a V-shapedvolume defined by the spokes extending from the electrically conductiverim of the wheel to a hub of the wheel that is wider than theelectrically conductive rim.
 16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein theweight is a single monolithic piece.
 17. The apparatus of claim 15,wherein the weight is made of non-magnetic material to avoid interactionwith the at least one magnet.
 18. The apparatus of claim 15, furthercomprising a screw configured to provide a clamping load between theweight a spoke of the wheel.
 19. The apparatus of claim 1, furthercomprising a controller and an actuator, the actuator connected to theadjustment mechanism, the controller configured to control the actuatorto actuate the adjustment mechanism to change the active position of theat least one magnet to controllably vary the resistance against rotationof the wheel in the frame.
 20. A cycling resistance apparatuscomprising: an adjustment mechanism configured to be attached to aframe, a wheel of a bicycle rotatably mounted with respect to the frame,the wheel having an electrically conductive rim, a tire being mountableto the electrically conductive rim; and a magnet assembly attached tothe adjustment mechanism, the magnet assembly having at least onemagnet; the adjustment mechanism configured to position the at least onemagnet of the magnet assembly at an active position configured to induceeddy currents in the electrically conductive rim of the wheel to provideresistance against rotation of the wheel in the frame without requiringany corresponding magnets to be attached to the rim, tire, or wheel ofthe bicycle.
 21. The apparatus of claim 20, further comprising astationary frame as the frame, the stationary frame configured torotatably support the bicycle wheel above a surface.
 22. The apparatusof claim 20, wherein the frame is a bicycle frame of the bicycle, andthe apparatus provides for resistance training during riding.
 23. Acycling resistance apparatus comprising: an adjustment mechanismconfigured to be attached to a frame, a wheel of a bicycle rotatablymounted with respect to the frame, the bicycle having an electricallyconductive rotational component as part of the wheel or attached to thewheel, the electrically conductive rotational component configured fornormal operation of the bicycle; and a magnet assembly attached to theadjustment mechanism, the magnet assembly having at least one magnet;the adjustment mechanism configured to position the at least one magnetof the magnet assembly at an active position configured to induce eddycurrents in the electrically conductive rotational component of thebicycle to provide resistance against rotation of the wheel in the framewithout requiring any corresponding magnets to be attached to the rim,tire, or wheel of the bicycle.
 24. The apparatus of claim 23, whereinthe electrically conductive rotational component is a rim of the wheel.25. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the electrically conductiverotational component is a disc of a disc brake.